Fans Couldn’t Believe Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Got Free Throws Off a Jump Ball

Stephen Douglas | Jun 16, 2025

SGA shoots a free throw during the third quarter of Game 5. / Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is one of the leading free throw shooters in the NBA. His ability to get to the line has caused some to call him a "free throw merchant." The fact that he earned two free throws on a jump ball during Game 5 of the NBA Finals is not going to help him beat the allegations.

Matched up with T.J. McConnell after a tie-up in the third quarter, the MVP drew a whistle on McConnell. Yes, McConnell did hit SGA in the arm trying to win the tip, but when was the last time you saw someone draw a foul call in this situation? Let alone get two free throws on a jump ball that his team was going to win anyway?

Fans on X could not believe it. Well, actually, they could believe it, but that didn't make them any less amazed by the call.

TJ McConnell got called for a foul on SGA on the jump ball 😂😂

“He just couldn’t jump very high, that’s not his fault.” pic.twitter.com/Z7fJ406l9V

— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) June 17, 2025

SGA literally the only player in the NBA that can get free throws off of a JUMP BALL

😂😂😂pic.twitter.com/W8CPXq3r5t

— Hater Report (@HaterReport_) June 17, 2025

SGA got free throws off a JUMP BALL 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/AfFKesbQm0

— BricksCenter (@BricksCenter) June 17, 2025

SGA made 10 of his first 11 free throws of the game.

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